Homily

A homily is a commentary that follows a reading of scripture. In the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion, and in the Eastern Orthodox Church, a homily is usually given during Mass (or Divine Liturgy for Orthodox) at the end of the Liturgy of the Word.

Roman Catholic Mass homily

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) states:

Other senses of "homily"

Contemporary clergy often use the term 'homily' to describe a short sermon, such as one created for a wedding or funeral.

In colloquial usage, "homily" often means a sermon concerning a practical matter, a moralizing lecture or admonition, or an inspirational saying or platitude.